In 1914, Gertrude Stein—a Pennsylvania native whose home in Allegheny still stands—published Tender Buttons. Though read relatively infrequently today because of its legendary difficulty, its impact has grown rather than lessened in the century since its publication. But in many ways, Stein was also not of Pennsylvania, or the U.S., at that. Most famous for her literary salon in Paris, Stein's legacy is indelibly transatlantic.

To that end, this panel session welcomes 15-20 minute papers about Stein and related modernist figures situated in a transatlantic context. The centenary of Tender Buttons is only one potential approach to participating in this panel. Papers might touch on Stein's poetry, her fiction and nonfiction prose, or her sphere of influence. Because that influence as a reader and mentor was so great, papers will also be considered that situate modernist works by other authors from Europe and America in context with Stein's.

Some questions prospective panelists might consider: What is Stein's relationship to the various geographies she inhabited throughout her life? More specifically, to the host state of Pennsylvania? What impact has Stein had throughout the modernist tradition? Is the critical narrative about Stein's legendary difficulty sufficient? Are the multiform narratives of this sort related to modernist studies sufficient as we approach all sorts of centenaries in modernist literature? In other words, can a transatlantic context suggest a different critical narrative for Stein than that of the impenetrable curiosity? More broadly, what fresh connections might a transatlantic critical lens offer for Stein's work? Viewing modernisms transatlantically, what literary/artistic figures link to Stein in new and unexpected ways?

Please include with your abstract: Name and Affiliation Email address A/V requirements, if any ($10 handling fee required at registration)

The 2014 NeMLA convention continues the Association's tradition of sharing innovative scholarship in an engaging and generative location. This capitol city set on the Susquehanna River is known for its vibrant restaurant scene, historical sites, the National Civil War museum, and nearby Amish Country, antique shops and Hershey Park. Discounted hotel rates will be available. The 2014 event will include guest speakers, literary readings, professional events, and workshops.